Your NHS: Frequently Asked Questions
What are my healthcare services?
Primary care services provide the first point of contact in the healthcare system. This includes:
This article provides information and signposting for all of your NHS Services.
What should I expect from my General Practice?
We all have the right to register at a General Practice. Once registered, your practice provides the following services:
- General medical treatment
- Hospital referrals
- Healthcare and lifestyle support
How do I register with a GP?
To register, find your GP.
You do not require proof of address to register, but you may still be asked for it. Should you encounter any problems, please contact us.
How do I book an appointment with my GP?
Appointments are available daily, in the evening and at weekends. Additionally, GP practices are increasingly offering services digitally, including the option of online consultations.
Please check with your GP prior to booking an appointment. If this is an issue for you, please contact us for support.
Your GP can refer you to specialist NHS services if they believe this to be the right course of action. Urgent referrals, such as for cancer diagnosis, will be completed within 2 weeks, whilst non-urgent referrals can take up to 18 weeks. For more information, please see here.
What if I require urgent medical attention?
NHS 111 for instant advice.
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you will be directed to the service which can support your needs best.
Please see here for all of the latest advice regarding attaining urgent medical treatment.
Walk-in centres are available if you need urgent medical attention, in non-life-threatening situations. They operate on a first-come, first-served basis and you will be seen on the same day, subject to availability.
Where can I find my local walk-in centre?
Find your nearest NHS walk-in centre here.
What should I expect from my dentist?
A dentist provides examination, assessment, treatment & tooth-care advice.
You are eligible to register with any dental practice. To find your nearest NHS dentist accepting new patients, see here.
For further support in finding your nearest dentist, please contact us
What are the standard costs for dental treatment covered by the NHS?
Band 1- £23.80 (Examination, Diagnosis, Advice) X-Rays, Scale and polish can also be included.
Band 2- £65.20 (The above plus fillings, root canals, and extractions)
Band 3- £282.20 (The above plus crowns, bridges, and dentures)
Please be aware that cosmetic treatment is not covered by the NHS unless deemed “clinically necessary” by your dentist.
If you are unsure of your eligibility for free dental care, please contact us
What services does my pharmacy provide?
Pharmacies act as a first point of contact for patients. Pharmacists are qualified healthcare professionals who can offer clinical advice and over-the-counter medicines.
Other functions that they serve include:
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Dispensing and disposal of prescriptions & medications
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Medication use review
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Self-care advice
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Healthy lifestyle support
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Advice on minor ailments
If your prescription is late, you can ask a pharmacist to obtain a copy prescription and dispense it for you.
Medicines bought in a pharmacy without a prescription are not covered by the NHS.
Some groups are eligible for free prescriptions. Check your eligibility here.
What is an optician and how can I find one?
Opticians provide eye tests, glasses, and contact lense prescriptions, as well as providing lense fitting and referrals.
Will I need to pay for my optician's visit?
Eye tests are not covered by the NHS. The standard price is between £10-25* and varies by locality and vendor.
*Additional costs may apply for prescriptions.
Some groups are eligible for free prescriptions. Check your eligibility here.
How do I make a complaint against an NHS service?
Please see here for further information on how to make a complaint about a primary healthcare service. If you need any further assistance, please contact us.
